Learning to express, learning as self-expression: a multimethod investigation of the L2 selves of distance adult Irish L2 learners

This multimethod study is an exploration of the validity and interpretive utility of Dörnyei’s (2009) ‘L2 motivational self-system’ (L2MSS), as it applies to adult, non-formal learners of Irish, who are learning through Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs). It is grounded in the psychology of language learning motivation (LLM), assessing whether non-formal adult Irish L2 learners are motivated by future L2 guides, both Ideal, reflecting hopes and dreams, and Ought-to, representing obligations and responsibilities. Three research questions are addressed, i) exploring the theory’s validity at a general level and examining whether ii) the L2 learning experience and iii) learner heritage background, are meaningful in predicting, and understanding, the motivations of learners. Using distinct samples from an iterated quantitative survey instrument (final n=638) and narrative interviews (n=42), evidence demonstrates the theory’s utility in an underexplored context, while raising questions regarding adult Irish language learners and theories of self. Learners endorsed and articulated internalised reasons to learn, encompassing personal hopes and obligations, with social others less directly impactful on their motivation. The futures learners described often referenced non-L2 related aspirations of self, and were less-directly related to L2 proficiency, in many cases. Challenges in relation to the latter, due to contextual difficulties, low efficacy beliefs, and limited contact with L2 speakers and learners, are described. Recommendations to encourage sustained L2 learning and support adult learners in fostering and developing L2 selves are made, to aid them in realising their personal language learning goals

Particle size reduction optimization of Laminaria spp. biomass for enhanced methane production

Recent studies have reported improved biogas and methane yield from marine biomass when the particle size is mechanically reduced and the specific surface area available to enzymes is increased prior to anaerobic incubation. Although the advantage of reducing the particle size has been identified, an ideal particle size that would offer greater yield with a positive energy balance has not been identified for such substrate to date. As particle size reduction by mechanical means is often highly demanding in energy, this paper attempts to fill this gap for macroalgal biomass by identifying the particle size distribution allowing the highest biogas and methane yields obtained in a previous work. The study estimated that when about 80% of the particles are sized below 1.6mm2, a biogas and methane yield improvement of up to 52% and 53% respectively can be achieved. The results are discussed in relation to the biogas yield, related methane content and potential inhibitory phenomena occurred during the fermentation

Development and characterisation of a bath-based vertical blackbody cavity calibration source for the range −30 °C to 150 °C

Industrial use of Radiation Thermometers (RTs) is becoming increasingly common due to the perceived advantages and wide market availability. Blackbody Cavity Radiation Sources (BCRSs) are typically used for calibration of these instruments, and these cavities are oriented horizontally in most cases. For BCRSs based in thermal baths, this necessitates the use of custom-built baths with side openings. This paper presents a unique design of vertical bath-based BCRS that may be immersed in conventional calibration baths without modifications to the baths. The method, results, and analysis of an international comparison comparing this vertical BCRS, standard horizontal BCRSs, and a previous iteration of the vertical design of BCRS are also presented. The comparison was conducted through collaboration between the Laboratory of Metrology and Quality, Slovenia (LMK) and the National Standards Authority Ireland (NSAI), with the intention of evaluating the suitability of the vertical orientation for calibration work. Transfer pyrometers and Standard Platinum Resistance Thermometers (SPRTs) were used as comparison standards. The transfer pyrometers used have spectral sensitivity from 8μm to 14μm in this temperature range. It was found that the vertical orientation was comparable to within 0.25°Cthroughout the range to standard horizontal cavities. It was concluded that a vertical configuration is an economical alternative for calibration of RTs within the range assessed

The utility of the FIPI score in predicting long-term clinical outcomes in patients with Fabry disease receiving enzyme replacement therapy with agalsidase alfa

Fabry disease is a rare X-linked lysosomal storage disorder in which there is deficiency of alpha galactosidase A. Enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) is commercially available and has been demonstrated to improve cardiac and renal outcomes. Predictive scores, such as the Fabry International Prognostic Index (FIPI), have been developed to stratify disease severity; however, these have not been validated to predict outcomes in patients receiving ERT. We show that the FIPI score at baseline can predict outcomes in a group of patients on long-term ERT

Improving emerging European NMIs’ capabilities in humidity measurement

The control and measurement of humidity is important for many industrial applications and to ensure the appropriate storage of materials and products. Humidity measurement techniques are diverse and each presents different challenges for use and calibration for a range of pressures and gases. Over the past few years, the development of humidity sensors and apparatus has matured to a level where traceable calibration is beneficial to all industries in which humidity and moisture measurement and control are important. This paper deals with a European project in which the overall objective is to develop or extend the measurement and research capabilities of the participating emerging NMI/DIs’ countries in the field of humidity measurements, where access to these types of facilities is currently limited

Expansion of European research capabilities in humidity measurement

Humidity is among the most important measured parameters related to HVAC applications, the storage of food products, industrial and medical gases, textile, paper and many other products requiring humidity measurement and control within certain limits. Humidity measurement techniques are diverse and each presents different challenges for use and calibration for a range of pressures and gases. Over the past few years, the development of humidity sensors and apparatus has matured to a level where traceable calibration is beneficial to all industries in which humidity and moisture measurement and control are important

Innovating Pedagogy 2020: Open University Innovation Report 8

This series of reports explores new forms of teaching, learning and assessment for an interactive world, to guide teachers and policy makers in productive innovation. This eighth report, produced by The Open University in collaboration with the National Institute for Digital Learning (NIDL) in Ireland, describes ten innovations that have the potential to influence education in the coming years